How to Determine if Online Baccarat Game is Rigged
Many have wondered and concluded that the online baccarat game is rigged. However, it is case-to-case, depending on players’ choices. Simply put, not all experience in online baccarat is the same. Some may have encountered bad types of the popular card game, while others have had the best moments of their gambling journey.
Still, it does not mean gamblers should have different experiences playing online baccarat; they can all have the same good, fantastic, and bountiful session of playing cards. This is how they can do it.
Learning the Basics: How to Play Baccarat
Before we teach you how to determine if an online baccarat game is rigged, it is best to go back to the fundamentals: learning how to play baccarat. To play, players must learn the following:
1. There are two betting choices.
In baccarat, gamblers are given two betting options: by playing their stakes on either the Banker’s or the Player’s hand. The bets must be placed on either hand before the dealer or the system begins dealing cards.
2. Dealing cards follows a process.
The game starts with the dealer drawing one card from the shoe (card holder) at a time. They flip the card face up and place it in the Player’s designated area on the table. This continues with one card going face up to the Banker’s area. This process repeats for a second card, each for the Player and Banker, completing the initial hand for each.
3. Cards have different values.
Number cards (2 through 9) are worth their face value. Think of them like their number! Face cards (Jacks, Queens, Kings) and 10s are all worth zero. Aces are worth just 1 point.
Here’s the key: The total score only considers the unit digit. If your hand adds up to more than 10, only the last digit counts as the score. For example, a hand with a 9 and a 6 (totaling 15) would be worth 5 because only the 5 in the “ones place” matters.
The winner is the hand closest to 9 when all is said and done. So, choose wisely when placing your bet.
4. There is a “natural” win.
No matter where you play the game of baccarat—online or traditional—there will always be a “natural” win. For those unfamiliar with the term, a “natural” win occurs if the first two cards dealt (either on the Player or the Banker) already have a total of 8 or 9. This means that having a first hand with an 8 or 9 gives an automatic win.
5. Learn the art of intuition.
In a game of baccarat, the Player’s hand is always completed first. This means that the game is automatically over if a player receives a hand with 8 or 9. On any other hand, there will always be a third card drawn unless the banker gets an 8 or 9.
6. Player’s action determines the Banker’s next move.
The Banker’s third card decision depends on the Player’s action and their own hand:
If the Player doesn’t draw a third card (stands):
- The Banker draws a third card if their hand total is 0-5.
- The Banker stays (doesn’t draw) if their hand total is 6 or 7.
If the Player draws a third card:
The Banker’s decision depends on the value of the Player’s third card:
- 9, 10, Face card, or Ace: Banker draws on 0-3, and stays on 4-7.
- 8: Banker draws on 0-2, stays on 3-7.
- 6 or 7: Banker draws on 0-6, stays on 7.
- 4 or 5: Banker draws on 0-5, stays on 6-7.
- 2 or 3: Banker draws on 0-4, stays on 5-7.
7. Time to calculate your win.
After all the cards are revealed, it’s time to find the winner! The hand that totals closest to 9 without going over wins. If both hands have the same value, it’s a tie, and no one wins or loses.
Ways to Determine a Suspected Rigged Online Baccarat Game
It’s important to understand that verifying with absolute certainty if an online baccarat game is rigged is extremely difficult for an individual player. However, there are steps you can take to increase your confidence in the legitimacy of an online casino and its baccarat games:
1. Check for a Gambling License
Reputable online casinos obtain licenses from recognized gambling authorities. These licenses involve strict regulations and ongoing audits to ensure fair play. Look for logos from commissions like the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority on the casino’s website. Casinos without a license are red flags and should be avoided.
2. Research the Casino
Look for independent reviews and casino ratings from trusted sources. Check for user experiences and see if there are any widespread complaints about unfair gameplay. While negative experiences can occur naturally, a pattern of complaints is concerning.
3. Understand Random Number Generators (RNGs)
All legitimate online casino games, including baccarat, use RNGs to determine game outcomes. These are complex algorithms that produce unpredictable and unbiased results, mimicking randomness. Reputable casinos will have their RNGs independently tested and certified by third-party organizations to ensure fairness.
4. Look for Red Flags
While uncommon, some red flags might indicate a rigged game. These include:
Unrealistic payout percentages: Reputable baccarat games typically have a house edge (casino’s advantage) of around 1.24% – 1.5%. Significantly lower payout percentages could be suspicious.
Untimely or incomplete payouts: If you win and experience difficulties withdrawing your winnings, it’s a major red flag.
Software glitches or abnormal game behavior: If the game frequently malfunctions or behaves strangely, it’s best to avoid it.
Remember
It’s crucial to gamble responsibly. Only gamble with licensed and reputable online casinos when you play baccarat online, especially with real money. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a casino or its games, avoid playing and report them to the relevant authorities.
If you are still searching for a trustworthy platform, particularly if you want to play online baccarat in the Philippines, register here.
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